There are number of different types of Visas for Singapore, however, the most popular one for which we receive applications is the Employment pass issued by the ministry for workforce in Singapore.
How to Get a Visa for Singapore
Singapore is one of Asia’s most popular destinations for tourism, business, and study. Entry is visa-free for many travellers, but if you’re not from a visa-exempt country, you’ll need to apply for a Singapore entry visa before arriving.
This guide explains who needs a visa, how to apply, and what to prepare.
1. Do You Need a Visa?
- Visa-free entry: Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, the UK, EU countries, the USA, Canada, and most developed nations can enter Singapore without a visa for 30 or 90 days (depending on nationality).
- Visa required: Nationals of countries such as India, China, Bangladesh, Russia, Pakistan, Nigeria, and most parts of Africa must apply for a visa in advance.
- Not a guarantee of entry: Even with a visa, final admission is decided by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) at the border.
✅ Always check the official ICA website’s Visa Requirements page before travelling.
2. Types of Short-Term Visas
| Visa Type | Purpose | Stay Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist / Social Visit Visa | Holidays, visiting family or friends | Usually up to 30 days, extendable once |
| Business Visa | Meetings, conferences, negotiations | Usually up to 30 days, extendable once |
| Multiple-Journey Visa (MJV) | Frequent travellers for business/social visits | 1–2 years validity, 30-day stay per visit |
For work, study, or long-term stay, you’ll need other passes (e.g., Employment Pass, Student Pass, Dependant Pass).
3. How to Apply for a Singapore Short-Term Visa
Option 1 — Through a Local Contact or Authorised Agent (Most Common)
- Applications must usually be filed by a Singapore-based contact (citizen or permanent resident) or an authorised visa agent.
- Your local contact/agent will submit the application via Singapore’s SAVE system.
Option 2 — Apply Online Yourself (Eligible Countries)
- Some nationals can apply directly via eVisa portal.
- Check ICA’s list to see if you’re eligible for direct application.
Documents Commonly Required
- Completed Form 14A (Visa Application)
- Passport (valid at least 6 months beyond entry date, with blank pages)
- Recent passport-size photograph (ICA specifications)
- Flight itinerary or confirmed ticket
- Proof of accommodation in Singapore
- Bank statements / proof of funds
- Letter of introduction (LOI) from your Singapore contact (if required)
- Business letter/invitation (for business travellers)
💡 If you don’t know anyone in Singapore, some authorised travel agents can act as your local contact for a fee.
Processing Time & Fees
- Processing: Usually 1–3 working days, not counting submission day.
- Fee: SGD $30 (approx. USD $22); non-refundable even if refused.
- e-Visa: If approved, you’ll get an e-Visa PDF you can print and present at immigration.
4. Arrival in Singapore
At immigration, you must show:
- Passport & valid visa (if applicable)
- SG Arrival Card (electronic health/travel declaration completed online up to 3 days before arrival)
- Return/onward ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds
5. Visa Extensions
- Short-term visit passes can sometimes be extended online via the ICA e-Service for an additional 30 days (subject to approval).
- Apply at least 7 days before your current pass expires.
6. Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply early: At least 2–4 weeks before your trip if you need a visa.
- Use official channels: Only apply via ICA, authorised agents, or the Singapore Overseas Mission.
- Meet photo & document standards: Incorrect photos or incomplete forms delay approval.
- Keep your SG Arrival Card handy: It’s now fully electronic and checked upon entry.
Quick Pre-Travel Checklist
- Passport valid for 6+ months
- Approved e-Visa / printed visa copy (if required)
- Completed SG Arrival Card (online)
- Flight and hotel details
- Proof of funds
- Travel insurance (recommended)
Apply for an Employment Pass
You can apply for an Employment Pass using myMOM Portal.
At a glance
| Who can apply | Employer or appointed employment agent (EA)Note: You are required to advertise your job opening on MyCareersFuture to consider all applicants fairly, before you can apply for an Employment Pass. |
|---|---|
| How much it costs | When you submit the application:$105 for each passWhen you get the pass issued:$225 for each pass$30 for each Multiple Journey visa (if applicable) |
| How long it takes | If you apply online: within 3 weeks for most cases.For overseas company without a Singapore-registered office: within 8 weeks for most cases. |
| Documents required | Find out what you’ll need. |
| Related eServices | Apply for an EPCheck application statusEP Online – get the pass issuedMake an appointmentCheck card delivery statusMore eServices and forms |
Use the Self-Assessment Tool to check if your candidate qualifies. You should not apply if the Self-Assessment Tool shows that your candidate does not qualify.
These are the steps you’ll take to apply:
| Step | Who does this | Result |
| Submit an application | Employer or EA | In-principle approval letter or rejection letter |
| Bring your candidate into Singapore | Employer | Entry approval letter |
| Get the pass issued | Employer or EA | Notification letter |
| Register fingerprint and photo (if required) | Candidate | Acknowledgment of card delivery |
| Receive the card | Authorised recipients or candidate | Employment Pass card |
Note:
- If a candidate is in Singapore with a visit pass that will expire before the Employment Pass is issued, we won’t be able to extend the visit pass.
- You should only bring in candidates when the pass is approved. They don’t need to be in Singapore when you apply and we won’t be able to extend their visit pass.